The political drama has seen some Disney Parks fans — and a particular Texas lawmaker — push for Disney to leave Florida behind. Some have even suggested that Walt Disney World Resort should be “moved” from Orlando, which would be no easy feat.
Now, however, Bloomberg has dived into why this move — logistical reasons completely aside — is unlikely to ever occur, and it has to do with Disney’s newest roller coaster and its deep ties to the Sunshine State.
Bloomberg‘s assessment noted that, despite Governor DeSantis’s recent dismantling of the Reedy Creek district, Disney is deeply entrenched in the Central Florida landscape in more ways than one. For example, Cosmic Rewind is estimated to have cost $500 million, with much of that money going to local contractors.
The investment underscores how important Florida is for Disney — and will continue to be even as the company tussles publicly with Governor Ron DeSantis. In April, GOP lawmakers voted to dismantle a special municipal district Disney has operated in since the 1960s, retaliation for the company’s opposition to a bill banning instruction of gender identity in K-through-3 classrooms. Disney has four theme parks and 29,000 hotel rooms in the Orlando area, employing 70,000 people.
“Disney World is not going anywhere because it’s such a huge investment,” said Chad Emerson, author of a book about the Florida resort. “You can’t get rid of Disney World, both the state and Disney would have consequences.”
Credit: Disney
Though Disney is a crucial player in Central Florida’s economy, Disney is overcharging and underperforming lately in many fans’ minds.
The report went on to share that, regardless of how the Disney experience has been altered, Guests are flocking to Florida, where they are spending money and reigniting the post-pandemic economy:
“Disney World is packed to the gills,” said Rich Greenfield, an analyst with LightShed Partners. “They’re raising pricing and literally looking at demand they can’t handle.”
Credit: Disney
Between its incredible $500 million new ride, ever-increasing demand, and the sheer size of Walt Disney World Resort, it certainly seems that, no matter what tensions arise, Disney and Florida are in it for the long haul.
Begin your adventure by touring the Galaxarium—a planetarium-like exhibition showcasing the similarities and differences between Xandar and Earth’s galaxies. You’ll even get to discover some of the incredible wonders of Xandar and learn about their technology.
An Extraterrestrial Escapade
Just as you are about to reach the culmination of the tour, everything goes sideways, and you are called into action to help the Guardians of the Galaxy. Join Rocket, Groot, Gamora, and Star-Lord on an urgent mission where you’ll rewind, rotate and head towards the action through an exciting space pursuit.
Ready for an awesome quest across the cosmos to save the galaxy? It’s all up to you!
The thrill ride opens on May 27, 2022.
What do you think? Will Disney ever leave Florida behind?
Let the expert team at Academy Travel help you plan your next magical vacation to Walt Disney World Resort’s four theme parks — Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios — and the Disney Springs shopping and dining district!
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Credit: Disney
